President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and National President of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), Comrade Festus Osifo, has praised women for their pivotal role in the sustainability of trade unions in the country and Nigeria at large as a nation.
Speaking in Abuja at the inaugural PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention (PWAC 2024), Osifo lauded women as “change-makers and pillars of development and decency in human society.” He underscored their significant contributions to family and national sustainability.
Established in August 2021 under the visionary leadership of the Central Working Committee (CWC), the PENGASSAN Women’s Commission (PWC) has become a symbol of empowerment, amplifying women’s visibility and participation across the oil and gas sector.
Osifo emphasised the importance of inclusivity in fostering innovation and excellence within PENGASSAN, proclaiming, “Our women are not mere participants; they are leaders, innovators, and change-makers.” He commended their resilience in managing high-stakes projects while balancing familial responsibilities.
Amidst ongoing transformations in the oil and gas industry driven by technological advancements and environmental imperatives, Osifo recognised women as architects of change, reshaping industry standards and promoting sustainable growth through their collaborative spirit and innovative drive.
He called for continued support and empowerment of women in the sector, acknowledging their pivotal role in driving collective progress. “Let us together illuminate the path towards a future where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and leave a lasting legacy,” Osifo concluded.
The PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention serves as a testament to the resilience and unwavering determination of women in the oil and gas sector, celebrating their achievements and envisioning a more inclusive industry landscape for generations to come.
Delivering her keynote address at the event, the National Chairperson of the PENGASSAN Women Commission, Comrade Mrs. Maryann Ada Mbanaso, said the PENGASSAN Women Annual Convention (PWAC) is an event dedicated to empowering and celebrating the dynamic women within the PENGASSAN. It serves as a platform for women across the industry to come together, share knowledge, and discuss the unique challenges and opportunities we encounter in our professional and personal lives.
“PWAC raises awareness about the unique challenges encountered by women in the industry and advocates for policies that support gender equity and diversity. PWAC will continue to serve as a crucial platform for driving ongoing progress and fostering continuous development among women in the industry. Each year, the convention will build upon the successes of previous years, addressing emerging challenges and opportunities in an ever-evolving sector.”
She went on to say, “We are passionate about expanding our advocacy efforts, promoting gender equity, empowering more women to take up leadership roles, fostering a supportive environment for professional development, and addressing emerging challenges faced by women in our industry.
“Looking to the future, we see ourselves as catalysts for change, driving initiatives that promote women’s rights, amplify their voices, and ensure their contributions are recognised and valued. Together, we will continue to pave the way for a more equitable and empowering future for all women in our industry.”
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